Trees and shrubs need water + sunlight + nutrient-rich soil to thrive in their environments. When trees and shrubs fail to thrive, a common issue we see is soil heavily compacted and lacking the necessary nutrients. We want your trees and shrubs to prosper! That is why we highly recommend having your properties soil tested. Soil testing is the first step to take in combatting heavy soil compaction.
What is soil compaction anyway? Soil compaction is when soil particles, pressed heavily together, reduces the possibility of water absorption and drainage. Heavily compacted soil is a problem for your yard because trees and shrubs can't grow roots and absorb water or oxygen as easily. Different stressors to the environment can create compacted soil. These stressors can include; new construction, heavy machinery, heavy foot/vehicle traffic.
Soil testing is needed to learn if the soil is heavily compacted and lacking nutrients essential to support proper growth. Through soil testing, we can tell how good or poor the soil is and then make concrete recommendations to match a new tree and/or improve the soil for an existing tree.
Here's how the soil testing process works :
Step 1: The Arborist will first assess tree placement and determine the proper soil testing site. The actual soil test will occur after the initial consultation has taken place.
Step 2: A soil sample is excavated from the property, preferably within the drip line of a tree. The Arborist removes any grass or rock from the testing sample to ensure accurate results.
Step 3: The Arborist will take about 4-5 soil samples for one reading. The results from the reading will come back within 7 - 10 days. You will receive the results along with a free, 15-minute consultation.
Although tree and shrub management can occur in every season, the fall is a great time to have your properties soil tested. If you'd like to speak with a Certified Arborist to learn more, click the link below.
NEWS & BLOGS
We see a lot of tree and shrub issues across all parts of North Carolina, but the issue we see the most of is improper planting.
The fall season is here! In honor of the fall, we have a list of the five best tree and plant practices you'll want to accomplish in your yard this autumn. Take good care for your trees and plants by following these five best practices listed below.
Charlotte, NC - Stephen Weil has joined Carolina Tree Care (CTC) as the new Plant Health Care (PHC) Manager. PHC is a proactive approach to monitoring and maintaining the health of trees, shrubs, and groundcover. Optimal results are achieved through preventive care for stress management, frequent monitoring, and early detection of problems, informed decision making, and integrated treatments that provide long-term solutions.
This week our Plant Health Care Manager and Arborist Representative made a yard visit; where horses were present and tree/plant toxicity was a concern. Most toxicities from trees come from poisons released through leaves after leaf fall. Keep your horses safe and away from trees or tree chips that are considered toxic if ingested. Below, see the list of 6 trees commonly found throughout NC and considered toxic to horses.
North Carolina’s heat has brought bugs and pests out in full force. This summer keep your oak trees healthy, strong, and pest free. Oak trees are known for being sturdy and durable, but still needs protection from pest attacks. One pest typically seen in late August / early September throughout North Carolina oak trees is the Orange Striped Oakworm.
The pine tree is our North Carolina's state tree and best known for lush green needles and beautifully straight trunks. This type of tree can be found all throughout NC from the mountains to the coast!
If you've found beetles among your yard and in your garden, you're not alone. In the summertime we typically see Japanese Beetles are out in full force around Concord, Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh. Japanese beetles have a shiny metallic green look to them and can be found throughout trees and plants.
Cherry Bud Rot is being seen right now across communities in North Carolina.
Charlotte, NC – The Bagworm Caterpillar is a tree pest seen year-after-year throughout Charlotte, Concord, Greensboro, and Raleigh, NC. Are your trees ready to stand against these common creepy crawlers?
